Chinese characters are not simply random symbols, but have a rich history and meaning behind them. The origins of Chinese characters can be traced back to oracle bone inscriptions from the Shang Dynasty over 3,000 years ago. These characters were carved onto ox bones and turtle shells as a way to communicate with ancestors and the gods. Over the centuries, Chinese characters continued to evolve, with each character representing a specific concept or object. Some characters are pictographs, meaning they resemble the object they represent, such as the character for sun (日). Others are ideographs, which combine two or more pictographs to convey a more complex idea, such as the character for peace (安), which is a combination of woman and roof. Understanding the origins of Chinese characters can help students appreciate the depth and complexity of the language. It also provides insight into the culture and history of China. By studying the formation and meaning of characters, students can develop a better understanding of the language and its significance in Chinese culture.